Aria loves her hair. The problem is that other people love her hair, too— some so much that they “try to touch it without even asking permission.” This purposeful picture book uses both humor and directness to address an experience unfortunately far too common for African American children (and adults): the disrespect of someone touching their hair without asking. The lesson extends to all personal boundaries, not just hair, the author explains in a note: Children should learn to ask permission, and know it’s alright to say—or hear—no. (It does not address that the question coming from a child may be rooted in curiosity, but from an adult it may suggest objectification.) Bright, colorful mixed-media illustrations amplify the upbeat tone in this treatment of a serious subject. (Ages 5–9)

An entertaining picture book that teaches the importance of asking for permission first as a young girl attempts to escape the curious hands that want to touch her hair.

It seems that wherever Aria goes, someone wants to touch her hair. In the street, strangers reach for her fluffy curls; and even under the sea, in the jungle, and in space, she's chased by a mermaid, monkeys, and poked by aliens . . . until, finally, Aria has had enough!

Author-illustrator Sharee Miller takes the tradition of appreciation of black hair to a new, fresh, level as she doesn't seek to convince or remind young readers that their curls are beautiful -- she simply acknowledges black beauty while telling a fun, imaginative story.